Farm Animals

Sheep Lameness Pain Management

Lameness in sheep causes significant pain that is often undertreated. Evidence-based pain management alongside treatment significantly improves welfare.

Key Facts

Footrot and CODD (contagious ovine digital dermatitis) are leading causes of sheep lameness
NSAID pain relief significantly reduces pain and improves recovery in lame sheep
The 5-Point Lameness Plan recommends prompt treatment within 3 days of onset
Untreated lameness causes chronic pain, poor body condition, and welfare compromise
Welfare regulations require prompt identification and treatment of lame sheep

Welfare Considerations

Lame sheep experience significant pain that affects feeding, movement, and overall welfare. Studies using pain grimace scales confirm that lameness causes substantial suffering. Pain relief with NSAIDs alongside appropriate treatment significantly reduces suffering and improves recovery speed. The Five-Point Plan that includes pain relief represents current best practice.

What You Can Do

Implement the Five-Point Plan for sheep lameness including NSAID pain relief
Train stockpersons in lameness scoring and identification
Advocate for mandatory pain relief in sheep lameness management